TROY Deeney aims to be at the head of a queue of youngsters itching to break into Walsall's first-team squad next season.

TROY Deeney aims to be at the head of a queue of youngsters itching to break into Walsall's first-team squad next season.

Eighteen-year-old striker Deeney came from nowhere last term to figure in the senior set-up during the closing weeks.

His objective now is to further embed himself in the plans of manager Richard Money. And he has plenty of company in that aim.

Deeney, Mark Bradley, Mannie Smith, Alex Nicholls, David McDermott, Richard Taundry, Netan Sansara and Charlton Davies will all be looking to follow the example of Ishmel Demontagnac in becoming a regular member of the senior group.

Behind those are young professionals like Peter Doran, Leon Quarless, Harry Harris and Chris Hanna. So Deeney is part of a wave of young talent seeking to impress Money.

"We have some very good young players at the club," Deeney said. "There are a lot of young lads here who will all be doing their best to get into the first team.

"It's a big year for a lot of us and hopefully if we get a chance we'll take it."

At the other end of the scale, Deeney has welcomed the arrival of experienced duo Danny Sonner and Paul Hall, from whom the youngsters can pick up tips.

"I'm sure all the young lads will be able to learn from Paul and Danny," said avowed Blues fan Deeney. "I remember watching Danny at the Blues and he's a good player who's been around a bit.

"And Paul has had a good career in the game, so I'm sure he'll be good for the club."